The walkers are all experienced and had suitable equipment for the conditions however, there was concern due to lowering temperatures and failing light as the night was drawing in.

By 8.38pm, three of the walkers made their way to a farmhouse in Wooler and police were contacted. By 9.27pm the remaining walkers were all confirmed as accounted for having been located by the police helicopter near Langleeford.

One of the walkers suffered a minor leg injury during the incident but all were safe and well and declined medical assistance.

Chief Inspector Dave Gould, of Northumbria Police said: “Officers assisted in the search for this group with our partners and we were pleased that the incident ended positively with everyone safely accounted for. It is always advisable for walkers to leave route details which can assist the co-ordination of any subsequent searches.”

A spokesman for Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team added: “Other than being very tired from their long day, all the walkers were well. A good outcome for all concerned.”